As India gears up for its biggest shopping season, Meta has launched ‘The 2025 Digital Utsav’ Playbook, offering marketers a roadmap to engage today’s tech-savvy festive shoppers.
The playbook, based on a Meta-commissioned IPSOS study, highlights how Generative AI, short-form video, and trusted creators are reshaping shopping journeys. A striking insight: 80% of festive shoppers used Gen AI to find gift ideas and inspiration, while 65% turned to Meta apps – with Reels and personalized ads leading purchase decisions. Nearly half said creator content helped them discover the best deals.
Arun Srinivas, Managing Director & Country Head, Meta (India), said: “Shoppers are turning to AI for inspiration, creators for credibility, and Reels for discovery. Our goal is to help businesses engage meaningfully and build trust this festive season and beyond.”
The playbook also notes key trends:
- Reels dominate discovery – especially in fashion and apparel.
- Creators drive trust – two-thirds of shoppers find brand-collaborations more credible.
- Mobile-first shopping – 9 in 10 consumers shop via smartphones.
- Quick commerce boom – 45% of shoppers, especially 25–34-year-olds, rely on it.
Meta emphasizes that festive shopping now extends beyond Diwali, running from July through New Year’s Eve, creating multiple brand touchpoints. Personalized ads, dynamic catalogs, and interactive formats like Reels, Stories, and Live Shopping will be key to building lasting connections.
India’s festive shopping is now personalized, connected, and AI-driven – where technology meets tradition.
